Reward Set For Park Arson Information – September 8, 2011

Thursday, September 8, 2011

ARCATA – On Saturday, Sept. 3 at about 3 a.m., the Chevret-Vaissade Park playground was destroyed by a fire. Investigators are still working on the cause of the fire.

A reward fund has been established currently totaling $1500 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for the fire. The City of Arcata has contributed $1,000 to the fund and a private donor has contributed $500.

Community members wishing to donate money to the reward fund or want to help offset the cost of a replacement playground may send their donations to the Arcata Police Department. Please specify “Vaissade Park Fund.”

Arcata Police Chief Tom Chapman said, “The community support for this park has been overwhelming.” Chapman added, “We have been contacted by several people wanting to donate funds for a reward and the rebuilding of this playground.”

Police and Fire officials are continuing their investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the APD at (707) 822-2428.

Donations can be mailed or dropped off at the Arcata Police Department, 736 F Street, Arcata, CA 95521.